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With the odds stacked against them, Manchester United emerged victorious in the FA Cup final against fierce cross-town rivals Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday.
It was the club’s 13th triumph in the competition and manager Erik ten Hag’s second trophy in as many seasons which will now increase the pressure on INEOS regarding the managerial position.
A dismal league campaign saw the Red Devils finish eighth, their worst-ever in Premier League history, and coupled with a group-stage exit from the Champions League and the manager’s ineffective style of play, there were rumours that the new co-owners were looking at removing the former Ajax coach from the hot seat.
Multiple reports revealed that INEOS were contemplating a change at the top with the club reportedly meeting the likes of Kieran McKenna, Mauricio Pochettino and Roberto de Zerbi before Saturday’s summit clash.
To sack or not to sack, that is the question
The club vehemently denied these allegations and they have maintained that a final decision will only be taken after the season review is conducted.
It is expected to start this week and a final decision could be out at the weekend. In other sporting matters, INEOS have typically taken four days to come to a decision.
While many are in favour of keeping the Dutchman after Saturday’s masterclass, the reality is his stubbornness has cost the team, especially with his refusal to tweak his system despite the numerous injuries.
ESPN have reported that Ten Hag’s camp believes that he is likely to lose his job despite bringing in silverware this campaign.
However, if he is sacked after two seasons, it is going to cost INEOS heavily as his compensation package has just gone up after the club secured Europa League football for next season.
“Erik ten Hag believes he could still be sacked by Manchester United despite winning the FA Cup, a source has told ESPN. The Dutchman, who began a holiday on Sunday still in the dark about his future, remains concerned that he will be axed once club chiefs hold their end-of-season review.
EtH’s future hangs in the balance
“A source has told ESPN that the review is due to begin this week. Other reviews Brailsford has led in other sports have typically taken around four days to complete.
“Sources have told ESPN that final a decision will be based on on-field performance but also on whether Ten Hag will fit into the club’s new leadership structure, including accepting a reduced role in player recruitment.
“Sources have told ESPN that in the event of his sacking, Ten Hag is now due a higher amount of compensation than if United had missed out on Europe altogether.”
Will INEOS start their first-ever full campaign with a new man at the helm or will they provide Ten Hag with the tools to excel after a difficult first two seasons in Manchester? All eyes are currently on Sir Jim.
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